TV Producer's Doc Opens Austin Film Fest

The world premiere of Phil Rosenthal’s documentary Exporting Raymond has been chosen as the opening night film at the 17th annual Austin Film Festival & Conference, which will take place from October 21-28. It marks the feature directorial debut of Everybody Loves Raymond creator and executive producer Rosenthal and chronicles his journey to Moscow where he spent time helping a Russian TV producing team create a local adaptation of his hit CBS sitcom. Rosenthal will be on hand for a Q&A after the screening.

15 Comments

I’ve seen “Exporting Raymond,” and it’s fantastic. Worth seeing. In fact, worth a trip to Austin.

Jeff • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

Agreed. I saw the first rough cut a while back and found myself completely taken by this funny, sideways adventure into the former soviet television industry.

I dunno if it’s worth a trip all the way to Austin as I’m sure it’ll get some play in the major cities eventually, if you do get a chance to see this opening night, it’s well worth the effort.

Richie Walker • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

I’m hearing the film won’t open Austin, as announced…that there is litigation behind the film.

INterested Observer • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

Love everything about this idea except that Mr.Rosenthal is front-and-center through the entire piece. Taking nothing away from his deserved success, the man’s voice, personality and bug-eyed mannerisms are beyond irritating.

MS • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

The movie is hilarious and informative. Phil is a great guide: funny, curious, and highly entertaining. He never makes the movie about him.

FJ • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

Saw a sneak preview of this movie…pure entertainment and easily the funniest doc I have ever seen. I am so happy to see it opening The Austin Film Festival! The story is amazing and I walked out with a smile (as did the other people I was with.) Will make a lot of people happy opening night! Phil Rosenthal is clearly a real person and has the patience of a saint! Pure fun.

SW • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

The whole idea of this movie makes me laugh.

SW • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

Forgot to add that…I can’t wait to see it!

FJ • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

I saw a sneak preview of Exporting Raymond. This movie is pure entertainment. It is easily the funniest doc I have ever seen. I walked out with a smile on my face (as did the others I was with.) Should make a lot of people happy opening night. It definitely made our night. Phil Rosenthal has the patience of a saint (I wouldn’t!) Just plain enjoyable. Enjoy it!

We were fortunate to get a sneek peek of this absolutely HILARIOUS film – Phil Rosenthal is a genius comic, story-teller, and human being – Exporting Raymond was the funniest documentary i have ever seen and it was embraced with standing ovation. MUST SEE!!

BR • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

Phil is an awesome guy – I can’t wait to see this.

Kevin • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

I love documentaries, but they often have a reputation of being too “heavy” for many viewers. This is not the case with “Exporting Raymond.” Phil Rosenthal takes a look at culture differences and comedy in this funny and sometimes touching film.

Best of all, you do not have to be a fan of “Everybody Loves Raymond” to enjoy it.

sandy barlow • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

Exporting Raymond- very funny and sometimes poignant. I love this film/doc. Having travelled to E. Europe in the 90’s, it was interesting also to see how it has/hasn’t changed. Exporting Raymond peeks into E.Europe-not usually seen by anyone who hasn’t been there and gotten off the beaten path.

Bev McMann • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

Having lived abroad for ten years in various countries–I can fully relate to the translation misinterpretations. Rosenthal’s, “Exporting Raymond” is by far the most hilarious documentary I have every seen. Never have I laughed so much at someone else’s travel experiences while trying to understand the work ethics of those in a foreign country. Don’t miss this documentary–so entertaining!

Melissa • on Oct 7, 2010 11:55 pm

I saw a rough cut of “Exporting Raymond” in March, and it was very good. So, so funny, but with a lot of heart. Everyone should go see this movie!